Church Planting in Australia: Why It’s Far From Over Some people think church planting in Australia is a thing of the past. But the truth? It’s alive, well, and more important than ever. Starting new churches isn’t just a trend—it’s a strategic and biblical way to spread the gospel and create thriving communities of faith. Let’s dive into why church planting still matters, tackle some common objections, and check out some inspiring examples—including the incredible work of Divergent Church Canberra . Why Church Planting is Still Essential Church planting has always been a key part of Christianity. Just look at the New Testament—Paul and the early disciples were constantly planting churches in new cities. Acts 14:23 tells us, “Paul and Barnabas appointed elders for them in each church and, with prayer and fasting, committed them to the Lord.” This wasn’t just a side mission; it was core to spreading the gospel. And guess what? It still works today. Research shows that new churche...
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Different Approaches to Church Planting in Australia: From Traditional to Adaptive Models
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Different Approaches to Church Planting in Australia: From Traditional to Adaptive Models Church planting has always been central to the mission of the Church, reflecting Jesus' Great Commission: “Go and make disciples of all nations” ( Matthew 28:19 ). In Australia, different church traditions and movements have embraced varied approaches to church planting, each shaped by theological perspectives, cultural trends, and strategic priorities. This blog explores traditional denominational models, the expansion of Pentecostal churches, ARC-style big-launch plants, and more organic approaches—highlighting their strengths, weaknesses, and biblical foundations. 1. Traditional Denominational Church Planting Overview Traditional denominations—such as the Anglican, Baptist, and Presbyterian churches—have historically planted new congregations through formal structures. These church plants often start with a parent congregation supporting a new church in a growing suburb or rural town , w...
The emergence of Pentecostalism in Australia
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Pentecostalism has profoundly influenced Australia's religious landscape, evolving from modest beginnings in the early 20th century to a vibrant movement characterized by dynamic worship, diverse congregations, and significant societal contributions. This journey encompasses the establishment of major denominations, the pivotal role of women in ministry, the rise of megachurches, and the integration of blue-collar and multi-ethnic communities into the broader Australian identity. Early Foundations and Major Denominations The roots of Australian Pentecostalism trace back to 1909, marked by a series of revivals and the efforts of passionate evangelists. A significant milestone occurred in 1927 with the formation of the Australasian Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM), led by Sarah Jane Lancaster of Melbourne's Good News Hall and evangelist Frederick Van Eyk. However, internal doctrinal disputes and leadership controversies led to the AFM's dissolution. Subsequently, in 1929, the As...